Yumna Zaidi

Yumna Zaidi is one of Pakistan's most celebrated television actresses, widely praised for her versatility across comedy, romance and intense drama. Born on 30 July 1989 in Karachi, she studied economics at the University of Karachi while pursuing theatre on the side. She made her television debut in 2012 with a supporting role in Nikkah on Hum TV.

Breakthrough and acclaim

Yumna's breakthrough came with Ullu Baraye Farokht Nahi (2013), for which she won the Lux Style Award for Best Emerging Talent. She went on to deliver acclaimed performances in Dil-e-Muztar (2016), Dar Si Jati Hai Sila (2017), the fantasy romance Pyaar Ke Sadqay (2020), and the hit Bakhtawar (2021). Her portrayal of the character Zindagi in the acclaimed Parizaad (2021) — a drama about a dark-skinned man's journey through society — is considered one of the finest performances in recent Pakistani television.

In 2022 she starred in Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha and in the same year began filming Tere Bin (2022-23), a passionate romance opposite Wahaj Ali that became a global phenomenon, breaking viewership records across Pakistan, India and the diaspora. The role of Meerab earned her the Lux Style Award for Best TV Actress. She later headlined Noor Jahan (2024) with an acclaimed performance as the title character.

Beyond acting

Yumna is known for her grounded, private personal life and her advocacy for women's rights and education. She has also worked as a model and been featured in leading fashion campaigns. Consistently ranked among the most-watched and most-loved actresses in the country, she is regarded as the defining actress of her generation, celebrated for choosing roles that challenge social norms.